Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Salmon Protein

Also known as: Salmon protein, salmon fish protein, salmon protein hydrolysate (SPH), salmon fishmeal, Salmo salar protein, SPH, Salmon Protein Hydrolysate

Overview

Salmon protein supplements are derived from the muscle tissue or by-products of Atlantic salmon (*Salmo salar*), often processed into hydrolysates to enhance bioavailability. These supplements are rich in essential amino acids, micronutrients (e.g., vitamin B12, selenium), and bioactive peptides. Primary uses include improving micronutrient status, enhancing energy levels, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, and supporting hematological health. Emerging research suggests potential cosmetic benefits related to skin, hair, and nails. The evidence base is growing, with several randomized controlled trials, but systematic reviews and meta-analyses are limited. Overall, salmon protein hydrolysates are considered a promising source of bioavailable nutrients and bioactive compounds.

Benefits

Salmon protein hydrolysate offers several evidence-based benefits. It significantly improves micronutrient status, notably increasing serum vitamin B12 and selenium levels, as demonstrated in an 8-week RCT. Hematological health is enhanced, with a 42-day placebo-controlled RCT showing increased hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels, outperforming whey protein. Subjective energy levels can improve, with one 18-week open-label study reporting a 10.24% increase. Additionally, it exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by modulating cytokine production and may offer cosmetic improvements in skin, hair, and nails, particularly for women. These benefits are most pronounced in individuals with suboptimal micronutrient intake, iron-deficiency anemia, or those experiencing fatigue and oxidative stress.

How it works

Salmon protein hydrolysate provides bioavailable essential amino acids and micronutrients (B12, selenium) critical for erythropoiesis and antioxidant enzyme function. The bioactive peptides present may upregulate antioxidant genes (e.g., HMOX1, FTH1) and modulate inflammatory cytokine production, leading to reduced inflammation. It supports the hematological system by increasing hemoglobin and ferritin. The supplement potentially influences skin and hair health via anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Hydrolyzed salmon protein peptides exhibit enhanced absorption compared to intact proteins, facilitating efficient nutrient delivery and utilization within the body.

Side effects

Salmon protein hydrolysate is generally considered safe, with no significant adverse events reported in controlled trials lasting up to 18 weeks. Common side effects have not been reported in clinical trials. Due to its fish origin, individuals with known allergies to fish or seafood should avoid it. While no specific drug interactions have been documented, caution is advised for patients on anticoagulants. Safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been established, as these populations were excluded from studies. Iron-deficient individuals may benefit from supplementation but should be monitored by a healthcare professional. Overall, the safety profile appears favorable, but further long-term studies are warranted.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of salmon protein hydrolysate is approximately 4 g/day for improving energy and oxidative stress. A dosage of 16 g/day has been shown effective for improving hemoglobin and ferritin levels in individuals with anemia. Optimal dosage ranges from 4 to 16 g/day, depending on the desired outcome. Studies up to 16 g/day have demonstrated safety. It is recommended to take the supplement with meals to enhance absorption and compliance. Hydrolyzed protein powder or capsules are preferred for better bioavailability. While a maximum safe dose is not clearly established, it is advisable to adhere to the dosages used in clinical trials.

FAQs

Is salmon protein supplementation safe long-term?

Current evidence up to 18 weeks shows safety; longer-term studies are needed to fully assess long-term safety.

Can salmon protein help with anemia?

Yes, supplementation has been shown to significantly increase hemoglobin and ferritin levels in iron-deficient adults.

Does it improve energy levels?

Yes, subjective energy levels improved by approximately 10% in healthy adults in one study.

Are there benefits beyond protein supply?

Yes, it provides micronutrients (B12, selenium) and exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Is it suitable for vegetarians?

No, salmon protein hydrolysate is derived from fish and is not suitable for vegetarians.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9363293/ – This double-blind RCT (n=88) found that salmon fish protein supplementation significantly increased serum vitamin B12 and selenium levels in adults at risk of type 2 diabetes after 8 weeks. The study also showed a reduction in the prevalence of low B12 status, but no significant effects on glucose or lipid metabolism were observed. The high-quality RCT design with proper controls supports the conclusion that salmon protein can improve micronutrient status.
https://ffhdj.com/index.php/ffhd/article/download/1491/4106 – This 18-week open-label, single-arm trial (n=20) reported that salmon protein hydrolysate supplementation led to a 10% improvement in perceived energy levels and a 9% reduction in oxidative stress markers in healthy adults. The study also noted favorable modulation of inflammatory cytokines and cosmetic benefits. While promising, the lack of a control group and the open-label design limit the strength of the conclusions.
https://www.longdom.org/open-access/a-placebocontrolled-study-of-the-impact-of-dietary-salmon-protein-hydrolysate-supplementation-in-increasing-ferritin-and-34643.html – This randomized, placebo-controlled study (n=48) found that salmon protein hydrolysate supplementation significantly increased hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels in iron-deficient adults after 42 days. The study also reported improved alertness compared to a whey protein control group. The RCT design and appropriate statistical analysis support the conclusion that salmon protein hydrolysate can effectively improve hematological parameters in individuals with iron-deficiency anemia.